The Kano State Government has demolished some unauthorised buildings in Sharada, warning developers to obtain approval or face prosecution.
The State Commissioner for Lands and Physical Planning, Abduljabar Umar, gave the warning on Tuesday during the demolition of unauthorised structures on a parcel of land in the Sharada area of Gwale Local Government Area.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the structures were erected on land designated for recreational use in the Federal Housing Authority estate.
The commissioner said the warning became necessary after the state government discovered that some individuals had commenced construction on the land without obtaining the required approval from relevant authorities.
He explained that the land was originally designated as a recreational space for residents of the FHA estate.
According to him, the illegal development contravenes the state’s urban planning regulations; hence, any structure erected without proper approval is unlawful.
“We are a law-abiding state, and there are laws guiding any development in Kano State,” the commissioner said.
He added that individuals or organisations intending to build must secure approval from the Kano State Urban Planning and Development Authority.
He, however, said those involved in the illegal developments would be prosecuted, as the state government would not tolerate attempts to convert public spaces into private commercial ventures.
Umar further disclosed that the structures under construction on the land had been demolished, while authorities would continue to monitor the area to prevent further encroachment.
He assured residents of the government’s commitment to preserving the land for its original purpose, adding that plans were underway to transform it into a recreational park for the benefit of the community.
“Our eyes are on this stretch of land. We assure residents that it will be converted into a recreational centre for their benefit,” he said.
The commissioner also noted that documentation concerning the land was being reviewed, stressing that any rightful owner must ensure “it is used strictly for recreational purposes.
“We will not allow this place to be converted into a commercial venture,” he said. (NAN)
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